#Synthetic Fibers market

[blatantescapism]

To be fair,

the lyocell process uses a different chemical soup than the rayon process.

Compared to rayon, lyocell soup is less toxic, more reusable, and more energy efficient.

So lyocell *is* environmentally better, even before you consider the effect of using different plants as the source of cellulose. And in addition to being less harmful to the environment, it’s safer for the factory workers.

So if you’re committed to using a cellulose fiber, it’s better to get lyocell for those reasons.

but, yes! The final material will behave exactly the same, because it’s all cellulose.

You cannot iron or machine-launder seacel or tencel or lyocell, for the same reasons that you can’t use heat on rayon.

But when you see all the advertising saying how lyocell is antifungal, cooling, biodegradable etc. etc.,

(and the exact same thing is true of rayon),

that isn’t really *about* lyocell versus rayon.

It’s about lyocell versus POLYESTER.

because obviously cellulose can never replace natural fibers,

but it CAN do everything polyester does, plus all these things that polyester can’t!

Lyocell could completely replace polyester forever, and the world would be a better place!

But, critically, polyester is

1.) dead cheap

2.) part of the Big Oil empire.

Back when rayon was first invented, people were making the exact same talking points.

But Big Oil was like “well, if you don’t care about the environment, we’re the dramatically cheaper option… and if you DO care about the environment, here’s all these scary facts about the nasty rayon Chemical Soup! And your precious cellulose supports the logging industry! Checkmate, haha!”

and so, nothing changed.

Now we have lyocell, which has the exact same qualities and is more Idealogically Pure.

Right now it isn’t that common or popular, because it hasn’t found its niche. It can’t compete with luxury fibers!

But if we all just looked around and saw how fucking much polyester fiber there still is in the world,

and realized that all of it could be replaced!!! with lyocell, or with something else,

we could just STOP USING POLYESTER FIBER and it would be a major win for the planet.

No more polyester fiber

“Bamboo is antifungal”

Because it’s rayon

“Eucalyptus fabric is cooling!”

Yeah, because it’s rayon

“We make clothing called seacell out of seaweed!”

Yeah I looked on your website it’s made by the lyocell process, which means-

-wait for it-

It’s fucking rayon!!

Listen. There is a list of actual plant fibers that are directly made into fabric: cotton, linen, ramie, some hemp. I’m sure I’m missing a couple.

But if you’re wondering “huh how did they turn that plant material into fabric,” 99% of the time? It’s RAYON.

All rayon is made by putting plant material in chemical soup, dissolving out everything but the cellulose, and turning the cellulose into filaments/fibers.

The source of the cellulose has zero effect on the eventual fabric.

Rayon made from bamboo or eucalyptus or seaweed is not any better than rayon from any other sources.

Don’t let companies mislead you!

[chemicalsmaterialsnews]

Embracing the Versatility of Synthetic Fibers: A Modern Wardrobe Essential

In the world of fashion, there is a continuous need for novelty and adaptability. When it comes to fulfilling such needs, synthetic fibers have always come up with something new. Whether it is for their robustness, cost, or ecological nature, such fibers have become a primary in our modern wardrobes. 

Synthetic Fibers Provide Durability and Longevity 

One of the key substantial benefits of synthetic fibers is their extraordinary toughness. Not like natural fibers, like silk or cotton, synthetics such as nylon and polyester are made to endure unremarkable wear and tear. This toughness makes them ideal for casual wear, as they can stay in their shape and resist wrinkles even after several washes. Synthetic fibers are popular for their withstanding to fading, stretching, and fading making them the best for making long-lasting cloths that can bear the demands of our fast-paced lifestyles.

Synthetic Fibers are Affordable and Accessible 

Another factor synthetic fibers have gotten huge acceptance is their cost-efficient nature. Compared to their natural complements, synthetic fabrics are usually more pocket-friendly, creating them available to an extensive variety of customers. 

This convenience permits people to experiment with diverse styles and trends without being short on money. Moreover, synthetic fibers can copy the luxurious feel and look of natural materials at a segment of the price, providing a reasonable substitute for those who appreciate the aesthetics of high-end fashion.

Synthetic Fibers are More Eco-Friendly 

As sustainability becomes a progressively vital concern in the fashion industry, synthetic fibers have made substantial steps in decreasing their ecological impact. Via technological improvements, ecological synthetic fibers, like recycled polyester, have developed. Such fibers are credited from post-customer plastic waste, like rejected bottles, decreasing the dependability on virgin materials and lessening plastic contamination. Moreover, synthetic fibers need lesser resources, like water and land, during making compared to natural fibers, creating them a more sustainable option.

Adaptability and Performance 

Synthetic fibers provide supreme versatility, permitting makers to create clothes for several reasons. Their innate properties, such as quick-drying and moisture-wicking abilities, make them perfect for sportswear and activewear. Furthermore, the suppleness of synthetic fibers permits the making of stretchy fabrics, offering ease and liberty of movement. 

Synthetic fibers have certainly renovated the fashion sector, providing a variety of advantages that fulfill our modern requirements. From their toughness and affordability to their ecological nature and versatility, such fibers have become a vital part of our wardrobes. As we navigate a world that continually demands flexibility, synthetic fibers offer us ease, style, and a supportable fashion solution. Embracing the wonders of synthetics guarantees that we can uniform casually with confidence while aiding a more sustainable future.

[techninja]

Aramid Fiber Market: A Comprehensive Overview

The global aramid fiber market has witnessed significant growth in recent years, driven by the increasing demand for lightweight and high-strength materials in various industries. Aramid fibers are a class of synthetic fibers known for their exceptional strength, heat resistance, and abrasion resistance, making them an essential component in various applications.

Market Size and Growth

The global aramid fiber market size was valued at USD 4.3 Billion in 2024 and is expected to reach USD 9.6 Billion by 2033, at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 8.1% during the forecast period 2024 – 2033. This growth is attributed to the increasing demand for aramid fibers in various industries, including aerospace, automotive, defense, and infrastructure.

Market Segmentation

The global aramid fiber market is segmented based on type and application. Para-aramid fibers dominated the market in 2021, accounting for the largest market share of 57% and market revenue of USD 2.06 Billion. Meta-aramid fibers are also gaining popularity due to their unique properties, such as flame resistance, electrical insulation, and chemical stability.

Applications of Aramid Fibers

Aramid fibers have a wide range of applications across various industries. Security and protection equipment is the largest application segment, accounting for 27% of the market share in 2021. Other significant applications include frictional materials, optical fibers, rubber reinforcement, tire reinforcement, aerospace, and electrical insulation.

Market Drivers and Restraints

The growth of the aramid fiber market is driven by several factors, including the increasing demand for lightweight and high-strength materials in various industries, the growing need for safety and protection equipment, and the rising demand for eco-friendly and sustainable materials. However, the high cost of production and investment in research and development (R&D) are some of the key restraints hindering the growth of the market.

Regional Analysis

The global aramid fiber market is segmented into North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific (APAC), Latin America (LATAM), and Middle East and Africa (MEA). APAC is expected to be the fastest-growing region, driven by the growing demand for aramid fibers in countries such as China and India.

Competitive Landscape

The global aramid fiber market is highly competitive, with several key players operating in the market. Teijin Aramid B.V., DowDuPont Inc., Yantai Tayho Advanced materials Co. Ltd, KOLON Industries Inc., Huvis, Kermel, JSC Kamenskvolokno, China National Bluestar (Group) Co. Ltd., Hyosung Corp., and Toray Chemicals South Korea Inc. are some of the major players operating in the market.

Future Prospects

The global aramid fiber market is expected to continue growing in the coming years, driven by the increasing demand for lightweight and high-strength materials in various industries. The market is expected to witness significant growth in the APAC region, driven by the growing demand for aramid fibers in countries such as China and India.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the global aramid fiber market is expected to continue growing in the coming years, driven by the increasing demand for lightweight and high-strength materials in various industries. The market is expected to witness significant growth in the APAC region, driven by the growing demand for aramid fibers in countries such as China and India. The competitive landscape is highly competitive, with several key players operating in the market.

[aplpaca]

On one hand plastic fiber is bad for the environment and its production should be regulated imo but also like the way most of the posts talking about the issue are framed is really tiring and doen't sit super well with me bc theyre all "these fabrics are horrible and feel bad and we should only ever use natural fibers and nothing else and in a better society polyester wouldn't exist."

but like. I'm autistic and my main sensory issues are with touch and texture. I can't wear like 98% of clothes sold in stores bc the styles and fabrics set off my sensory issues and make me feel like I have to rip my skin off and break my skull against a wall. And a solid 75-90% of what I'm actually able to wear is polyester bc of how it stretches (for reference, polyester clothing is about 50-60% of the market). Pretty much everything I can wear that's not a generic cotton t shirt is largely polyester, and I have not found any natural fibers that are wearable for me without also incorporating polyester. Like I can honestly make an argument that access to polyester clothing is an accessibility issue for me. And there's no way I'm the only person this applies to.

So like. the framing of "and it's such a shitty bad-feeling fabric" as a reason to limit its use is just. literally not true for a lot of people (even those who don't have sensory issues. If no one thought it was comfortable, it wouldn't sell, my man). and also completely irrelevant to the actually important environmental issues.

also like. With addressing the environmental issues of polyester and other synthetic fibers, it should also come with consideration of like, either finding an environmentally friendly alternative that's *actually* a valid alternative in terms of texture, stretch/behavior, and utility. or, in the absence of an alternative, finding a way to reduce the production of and reliance on polyester without making it impossible for those who can't tolerate other options to find clothing that works for them and doesn't make them feel like they're physically combusting

And "polyester bad shitty fabric and I hate it i love you linen uwu" does neither of those things (also I fucking hate you linen). like. If I could wear 100% natural fiber pants, I would. But I literally can't do that without having a meltdown. So until that issue is addressed, the "just wear natural fibers"/"we need to only use natural fibers" type of clothing sustainability campaigning unfortunately isn't accessible to me and others with similar issues

[literaryvein-reblogs]

Writing Notes: Fashion History

for your next poem/story (pt. 2/2)

1950s

The 1950s were a time of large cultural and social change, which was reflected in the world of fashion. The Korean War began in 1950, followed by the introduction of the color TV in 1951. And in 1954, the modern civil rights movement began.

As the suburbs became popular, family and domesticity for women became a prominent force in society. Additionally, teenagers became fashion consumers and market leaders for the first time.

Due to technological advances, new fibers such as polyester, triacetate, and spandex are introduced. 

The prominent trend of the time was femininity, as shown by the prominence of Christian Dior's "New Look". Shape was emphasized by full swing skirts or narrow pencil skirts, as well as fitted bodices and a small waistline achieved with the help of petticoats and girdles. Elegant accessories and jewelry such as hats and pearls were popular at the time, and high heels were ubiquitous. Other trends included Peter Pan collars, tapered or capri pants, and the introduction of the bikini. 

1960s

The Beatles led the music and fashion “British Invasion,” influencing teenagers with their Mod aesthetic.

The Civil Rights movement led to the popularity of ethnic and African-inspired garments such as dashikis and caftans.

The 1960s were marked by eclecticism, both in fashion and society. A plethora of styles were fashionable at one time, ranging from space age fashions using vinyl and synthetics, to bold prints, colors, and disposable paper dresses inspired by Pop Art.

Mod fashion appeared on the London scene, with fashion designer Mary Quant as the “high priestess” of the style, and Twiggy as its supermodel.

Boutiques, a 1960s creation, began offering designer ready-to-wear collections, while easy-care fabrics were increasingly used by the general public.

Longer hemlines were dominant with maxi skirts and granny dresses, while hot pants and mini skirts were adopted by the younger market. These shorter hemlines popularized the use of pantyhose for modesty. As the decade progressed, chemise dresses that typified the dominant straight A-line silhouette became popular. Turtleneck blouses and sweaters were common, and sleeves were usually three-quarter length. Sleeveless tops were worn after the mid 1960s.

Jacqueline Kennedy became a major fashion icon, famous for her sophisticated style, pillbox hats, and pearls. Overall, hats in general experienced a decline in use, due to the popularity of high bouffant hairstyles.

Knee high go-go boots were popular, patent was often used, and low-heeled, square-toed shoes were common.

Popular accessories included headbands, bold jewelry, and matching shoes and handbags.

1970s

During the 1970s, the eclecticism of the previous decade continued, and influences from subcultures dominated fashion.

The Vietnam War ended in 1973, and the first Earth Day was celebrated in 1974.

The hippie subculture emphasized environmental awareness and social acceptance, translating into the popularity of natural fibers and earth tones, loose garments, blue jeans, and ethnic influences in dress.

Peasant blouses and skirts and psychedelic prints were popular, as well as historic revival styles.

In the late 1970s, music styles such as glam rock, disco, and punk influenced fashion and resulted in flashy, often shocking styles.

For the most part, clothing was loose and unstructured compared to previous decades. Skirts came in a variety of lengths — mini, midi, or maxi — although the mini and maxi were the most popular.

Unisex styles in clothing became a trend and were perpetuated by Diane Keaton’s character in the 1977 film, Annie Hall.

Trousers and blue jeans were worn by women more than ever before. Designer jeans arrived on the market, resulting in the birth of “licensing” for non-fashion products. Polyester was the other preferred textile for trousers.

1980s

With the rise of new media such as MTV, the 80s fashion landscape began to shift rapidly.

The televised wedding of Prince Charles and Diana Spencer caused a fashion frenzy, with "Lady Di's" elegant hats, tailored suits, and evening dresses making her a global style icon. 

The 1980s were known as the "Me" Generation, with an emphasis on logos and designer labels.

The decade also saw the rise of yuppie (young urban professionals) culture, and the introduction of the fitness craze.

In the world of high fashion, postmodernism and avant-garde fashion were vastly influential. With the introduction of yuppie culture, business attire and "power-dressing" with items like shoulder pads was a popular trend.

In light of the fitness craze, leg warmers, tights, and leotards were widely worn, and women accessorized with big hair, flashy costume jewelry, and bright heels.

In terms of undergarments, Madonna and Jean-Paul Gaultier inspired an underwear-as-outerwear trend alongside the popularity of Calvin Klein.

1990s

The 1990s reflected subcultures such as punk, goth, and grunge in fashion.

Hip-hop music became popular and as a result, urban fashion was popularized.

Unlike previous decades, the 1990s was notable for a more relaxed and casual look, as well as the introduction of technology such as cell-phones and pagers.

With the rise of globalization & technology, the fashion cycle began to speed up. 

1990s style was often considered "anti-fashion,"  with purposefully clashing or contradictory aesthetics.

Black, minimalist styles were popular, as well as vintage and 1970s style.

Many younger people sported crop tops, cargo pants, and blue jeans, and athletic wear in daily life. In terms of shoes, high heels, wedges, sandals, platforms, and sneakers were all widely worn.

More Notes: On Fashion ⚜ More: Writing Notes & References

[reality-detective]

Ladies, stop wearing tight polyester sports bras and leggings. When you sweat, they release toxic PFAS and BPA into your skin.

Polyester and spandex are not “performance” fabrics like they are marketed to be, It's literally made of plastic, and It retains odor so they STINK after just one workout.

It’s a total sham and these synthetic fibers lead to serious health issues. 🤔

Source: 👇

I've made a few posts about this 👆 in the past 🤔

[allthebrazilianpolitics]

How Brazil Recycling Co-ops Are Helping Turn Plastic Waste Into Shoes

In the searing heat at the ACAMTC recycling cooperative south of São Paulo, in Três Corações, Brazil, a group of recycling waste workers known as Catadores prepared bales of discarded plastic for transport. As the group of mostly women worked, they spoke humbly of how important their work is to helping make the planet a cleaner place. “I feel a mix of admiration and sadness,” said Evelini Castro Rocha, financial director of the Rede Sul e Sudoeste de Minas Gerais network of cooperatives. “The work of the Catadores is essential for the health of the environment, and I am very happy to be a part of it.” But, she worries they don’t get enough recognition for their work. 

The inconvenient truth is that all the shoes we’ve ever owned and discarded are likely still sitting in a landfill. Over 24 billion pairs of shoes are produced globally each year, and in the U.S. alone, an estimated 300 million pairs are thrown away annually. With fast-fashion rampant, and marketing focused on novelty, designed to drive up consumption, people are buying more, but keeping items for half as long. Footwear is no exception, with consumers amassing sizable shoe collections with an equally sizable carbon footprint.

The fashion and textile industry has a reliance on petroleum-based materials, considered indispensable for their durability and versatility. Polyester, for example, now dominates as the most widely used fiber with 71 million tons produced in 2023, accounting for 57% of global fiber production. From nylon to acrylic, these synthetic materials have a concerning climate cost: the fossil fuels associated with textile production are contributing to the industry’s hefty climate footprint, with environmental impacts across the value chain, including water use, energy consumption, the release of microplastics, and over 92 million tons of textile waste produced per year. ​​This non-biodegradable textile waste ends up in landfills where it can take hundreds of years to break down, releasing greenhouse gasses and leaching toxic chemicals into groundwater and soil.

But an increasing number of brands are swapping out synthetic fibers for lower-impact recycled alternatives—like polyester made predominantly from polyethylene terephthalate (PET) plastic bottles—in a bid to minimize their environmental impact. The challenge, however, is that they are still synthetic materials at the end of the day, with many of the same impacts as their virgin counterparts. However, a supply chain focused on upcycling, complemented by initiatives designed to keep such materials from ending up as waste, can help mitigate some of these impacts.

Continue reading.

[randomshenaniganery]

Mairon to Finrod (info dump time)

I am going to draw Oleander when im not busy but I did want to show why it took me three days to finish up everything

Me diving into the outfit design and slso Finrod's opinion on the boys its in the bottom tho skksks

ALSO ALSO if u make vespersonas i will be friends pls let us lore dump together

real name: ??? I haven't picked one akskkaskskaskas

Age: 29 (they pretend they're older as Vigil)

Height: 5'7 cm

Gender: enby

Sexuality: Asexual biromantic

Weight: 73 kg

Traits: Street smart, scrappy, observant, liar liar pants on fire

Skills: Swimming, sewing, sword fighting (shield user), puzzle solving, running,

Weaknesses: when they don't want to do something they'll be stubborn about it, can't jump very high,

Backstory timeline:

Has had Fractum Anima for at least 2 months now (same as all Vespers)

In the surface their job was being part of a group of private guards, they mainly escorted people or goods

Ran away from home due to domestic abuse at the age of 12 before joining the guard for training

Worked there for 17 yrs before they got diagnosed and went under

Met Cirrus they were like okay weird but whatever if there's a lunar ichor alternative we gotta try that, saw Cirrus punishing that dude went nope try again later, they did try again later and got the Cirrus grew bored of you route with Ark

Set the pleasure den on fire by using the lotions and oils that were left in the room. Fun fact if you dry lotion on fabric it's VERY flammable and since they don't have synthetic fibers in this game, plus considering what kind of ingredients they'd be using for lubrication, lotions and oil; it's really easy to set things on fire.

After running away and grabbing a new face, they broke into their old room and left their medallion before returning as 'Finrod'

met Oleander while avoiding the guards because they were feeling antsy

became Vigil and is balancing new work, how do I kill Cirrus thoughts and I might need to steal lunar ichor when it pops up in the market.

Habits & hobbies:

Whenever Finrod gets too overwhelmed they use pain to calm their mind, to them pain is clarity. So, sometimes when Finrod stews on bad memories they'll end up harming themselves in some way to force themselves to calm down

Really, really quiet when it comes to pain, crying or having a crisis, high pain tolerance basically which is good because of their flare ups

Sometimes Finrod doesn't really laugh even though something is funny so they learned to fake laugh as a way to show they find something funny

Whenever something is really funny to them they have the habit of covering their mouth

When they're unsure, nervous or feeling awkward they'll scratch their nose

Doesn't have a tell when they're lying cause they do it so much

Finrod has the habit of bringing everything they think they need with them at all times (matchsticks/lighter/strike-a-light/flint, knife, scissors, needle and thread, bandages, map, a magnifying glass, paper and ink) this is because of having to live on the go for their job. scouting behavior etc.

When Finrod is happy/relaxed/calm they'll start humming or singing this applies to games, when they have their plan all finished and they're confident they'll start singing to themselves

In a fight Finrod will throw themselves at people like a battering ram if needed, not that they're big but that they're good at knowing how to use their momentum and weight.

Likes massaging/caressing/tracing their friends' hands as a way to soothe themselves

Can finish dressing up and arranging all their things in under 4 minutes (habit from being a private guard on the go)

Name stuff:

Chose Mairon for their first half because I thought it would be appropriate since this is their first go at the mountain. Finrod is their second go because of how Finrod died and the betrayal stuff that happened to him.

Outfit Design:

Mairon's Clothes

Wanted it to come off as simple and formal more reminiscent of their time as a private guard. The most color you'll get from them is their belt and matching cuffs. Very neat appearance more npc looking since they want to blend in. They use the standard black mask in the game as well.

Finrod's Clothes

I gave it more color because Finrod had to ditch their old clothes due to the fire, it's a mix of things they grabbed or bought after the fire. They kept their belt and cuff because it's sentimental and also just useful to them. Although they wear more colors It's mostly dark shades so that they don't stand out in shadows. A lot of their body is bandaged and when they met Oleander half their face was bandaged under the mask too.

Opinions on the boys:

REaLLy wants Cirrus dead doesn't care if they get hurt in the process

Slowly growing an obsession over Oleander but they're very good at hiding it, their banter helps calm them down

Likes to mess with Kier otherwise neutral but i think storywise they haven't met

Francesco reminds them of a friend from the surface they bump into each other time to time

[materialsscienceandengineering]

Exploring non-wood cellulose fibers for sustainable textiles

In a world increasingly aware of environmental footprints, the textile industry stands at a crossroads, tasked with the challenge of sustainability. A recent study by a team of researchers at North Carolina State University offers a promising direction with their work on non-wood cellulose-based textiles. The study is published in the Journal of Bioresources and Bioproducts. Led by Ryen M. Frazier and Ronalds Gonzalez, the study explores the feasibility and potential of non-wood feedstocks for producing man-made cellulosic fibers (MMCFs), a sector traditionally dominated by wood-derived pulp. The research comes against a backdrop of escalating environmental concerns related to synthetic fibers like polyester, which currently accounts for over half of the fashion industry's market share. The study underscores the urgency of finding sustainable alternatives. As global textile production continues to rise, so does the demand for resources and the resulting environmental impact. The researchers highlight the potential of non-wood sources such as agricultural residues and dedicated fiber crops, which could offer a viable and eco-friendly alternative.

Read more.

[saltedsnailstudio]

Hi! I just found your page, love your work! I do a bit of lino printing and really enjoy it. I want to start printing on fabric but not sure how to transition.. What inks do I need, do I need to start using wood blocks, and how do I go about that, etc?

Any info or tips would be so appreciated :)

Hey, thanks!

Absolutely I can offer some tips for fabric printing! I also answered an ask about fabric printing a while back and there might be some info in there that you’ll find useful - https://www.tumblr.com/saltedsnailstudio/729384076745850882/how-do-you-print-your-linocuts-so-beautifully-on

So first off I would say don’t bother switching to wood for fabric printing. Linoleum does great! And, honestly, so does rubber. I don’t personally work with rubber/ez-cut style blocks often because I prefer unmounted battle ship grey lino, but it has been my experience that soft rubber blocks are easier to print onto fabric if you’re printing by hand. I recommend sticking with whatever blocks you like & are comfortable working with!

Since you asked about ink specifically: There’s a lot of different inks on the market you can use to make relief prints on fabric that’ll stand up to washing. Speedball has an ink made for fabric printing that some of my print friends swear by, but I personally despise it because I hate the texture of it and find it difficult to work with because it doesn’t have a very long open time. I use cranfield caligo safe wash relief inks for all my printing, both paper and fabric. I love the way it rolls out and it’s works really well for me because it’s oil based but it's water soluble before it dries, so it doesn't require wild solvents or anything to clean up like some other oil based inks do - just vegetable oil and a rag will do to get it off stuff. (careful using vegetable oil on the speedball beige/tan brayers, though, because it'll start to break down their material and make them go tacky if you dont adquately wash them and apply some cornstarch after!!) After the cranfield ink dries, it's no longer water soluble so it'll stay on fabric after washing. Keep in mind though that oil inks take ages to dry - I just hang my fabric prints up and leave them alone for a good two weeks, which might be overkill. When they're dry, I hit them with a hot clothes iron to help heat set them a bit before I wash them in cold water. I don't know if this actually does anything or is the placebo effect, but it really feels like I get less fading with fabric prints that I've heat set. You don't have to use the same ink I do, though I love it so much that I'll prostheletize it for ages, but make sure you do use an ink that's suitable for fabric printing because theres no heartbreak worse than putting all that work in only to watch it wash away.

In my experience, you'll need more ink on your block for printing on fabric than you would if you were printing on thin printmaking papers. You still don't want to just gob it on the block in one go - apply many thin layers to build up the ink on the block rather than trying to go in with a single thick layer.

Now that ink's handled, let's talk about the most important element of fabric printing: the fabric. A lot of folks have ratios of how much natural fibers vs synthetic whatever should be in the fabric you're choosing for relief printing. I'm sure those methods work for choosing good printing fabric, but I'm at a point of having failed enough times to know by look & touch if a fabric will probably work well or not. I really suggest just trying shit out, seeing if it works. I'm lucky enough to have a creative reuse center near me, but if you don't then I suggest snagging garments with fabric you like from thrift stores and cutting them apart if you're trying to make patches. You're looking for something with a nice smooth surface and a closed weave, no gaps showing through the threads. I really like tightly woven linen-y blends, personally. I've also played around on wool felt and have found it to print beautifully. When I first started printing on fabric, I went to the fabric store and got a half yard of duck canvas because that felt sturdy and very "punk" for patches. It was a miserable failure - the weave was too chunky to get really clean prints. Play around, don't spend too much money on fabric, and know that screwing up is a part of the process.

When it comes to actual printing method, I'm limited in my scope of advice for hand printing on fabric because I'm very spoiled and have a lever press from woodzilla that makes the process a lot easier for me. I'm not sure how you burnish your paper prints, but the spoon technique won't work with fabric since it'll move too much. I like to print my paper prints with the paper on top of the block and I reverse that for my fabric prints - the block lies face down on top of the fabric. I've seen folks get great results from laying down their fabric, laying their inked block on top, and then stepping on them to get more pressure than they could get from just pressing with their hands. You need a lot of pressure to get clean fabric prints and that pressure needs to go straight down - you need to be extra careful not to let the block slip, lest it smudge the image. You could try laying a wooden board down on the block before stepping on that if the print is large enough to require it. I've also seen some really ingenious ways of creating book binding/flower pressing style wooden vices on a budget to get the even pressure needed for a print, but this feels rather labor intensive and time consuming to me. Whatever the method, be patient and apply firm downward pressure.

Screw up, rejoice, have fun. If you end up needing any help trouble shooting specific problems as you experiment on fabric, feel free to send me another ask/pics and I'll try to help sus it out!!

[i-am-cesear]

Listen! You know I am a big Natsuhiko simp. It was normal for me to wonder about his necklace.

I think his necklace is REALLY important. What we know about Natsuhiko's necklace? It is a present from Sakura and it is germanium. He is just so casually says it in here.

I needed to check what is germanium and

1) Why did Sakura gave Natsu a germanium necklace?

Let's start with germanium itself. If I pass the more scientific stuff about germanium, this is what I get so far:

• It is a metalloid in the carbon group that is chemically similar to its group neighbors silicon and tin.

• Germanium is not thought to be an essential element for any living organism. Similar to silicon and aluminium, naturally-occurring germanium compounds tend to be insoluble in water and thus have little oral toxicity. However, synthetic soluble germanium salts are nephrotoxic, and synthetic chemically reactive germanium compounds with halogens and hydrogen are irritants and toxins.

•The major end uses for germanium in 2007, worldwide, were estimated to be: 35% for fiber-optics, 30% infrared optics, 15% polymerization catalysts, and 15% electronics and solar electric applications. The remaining 5% went into such uses as phosphors, metallurgy, and chemotherapy.

•Germanium supplements, made from both organic and inorganic germanium, have been marketed as an alternative medicine capable of treating leukemia and lung cancer.  There is, however, no medical evidence of benefit; some evidence suggests that such supplements are actively harmful.

So. We use germanium more in technology and it is not usually harmfull for people. Wanna know what I decided to search? Germanium necklaces. Just to see if it has any meaning.

I checked the first web-site and I know, I should've search more but I was curious. I searched "germanium necklace benefits" and wanna know what I found out? Apparently, germanium jewelry;

• Increases blood circulation

• Increases metabolism of body cells

• Removes harmful toxins

•Alleviates physical stress, stiffness, cramps or discomfort

• Controls swelling

• Reduces water retention

• Relieves fatigue and tiredness

• Promotes quality sleep

• Slows down aging

• Increases and maintains body warmth

But Cesear, why are they important??

It's because, I am almost sure that Natsuhiko is not wearing his necklace in this panel.

He is not wearing it. He can't. That necklace looks more like a collar than a necklace. For exemple, look here:

And here, now look at his germanium necklace:

That thing is not loose. I don't think he can wear that thing under a shirt that buttoned all the way up and a necktie. Look again. Do you see what I mean?

And in these panels, it is the first time Natsu talks about something that hurts him. He experienced some wild things before with Nene.

He looks scared but totally ok in here.

He looks scared, not in pain.

And he just comes back like nothing happened. These panels was one of the reasons why I thought he was immortal in the first place. He is wearing his necklace in all of them. He looks fine, he looks like his usual self. But in the raws, he looks tired. My friend pointed it out for me that in whole manga, this is the only time Natsu look genuinly tired and also, he mentions himself as a "human."

Maybe it's because he is losing blood but I don't think that much of blood and that much of a time is long enough for him to feel tired. I think he is not wearing his necklace and that necklace is healing him.

But Cesear, what does the necklace healing Natsu from?

Good question.

Before these raws, I thought that Natsu was sick and he was dying. Remember where people use germanium? Don't bother scroll back up, I'll show you again.

• Germanium supplements, made from both organic and inorganic germanium, have been marketed as an alternative medicine capable of treating leukemia and lung cancer.

But now that we have the raws, I know what the necklace heal Natsu from.

I think it is healing him from his own blood.

We now know that Natsuhiko is immortal (like I was saying for months now) because of a rumour that Sakura released but Natsu is not entirely supernatural. His blood causes the supernatural things to break down, it is toxic for them.

And if Natsu is at least somewhat immortal, that means that his blood might be toxic for him as well. He is also immortal. Which might put Natsu in a circle; his own blood keep hurting and killing him inside while his immortality forces him to live. It must be painful, he feels pain. He says that either cutting his palm or his blood hurts so he feels it. He can't be useful like that. So, how are we going to fix it?

By giving him a healing necklace which is also believed that helps with aging process.

So. Now you know why I found that necklace really important.

[aeide-thea]

06-07-23 Why Patagonia helped Samsung redesign the washing machine

Samsung is releasing a wash cycle and a new filter, which will dramatically shrink microfiber pollution.

Eight years ago, Patagonia started to study a little-known environmental problem: With every load of laundry, thousands (even millions) of microfibers, each less than 5 millimeters long, wash down the drain. Some are filtered out at water treatment plants, but others end up in the ocean, where fibers from synthetic fabric make up a surprisingly large amount of plastic pollution—35%, by one estimate. Fragments of your favorite sweatshirt might now be floating in the Arctic Ocean. In a collaboration that began two years ago, the company helped inspire Samsung to tackle the problem by rethinking its washing machines. Today, Samsung unveiled its solution: A new filter that can be added to existing washers and used along with a “Less Microfiber” cycle that Samsung also designed. The combination makes it possible to shrink microfiber pollution by as much as 98%.

[…] Patagonia’s team connected Samsung with Ocean Wise, a nonprofit that tests fiber shedding among its mission to protect and restore our oceans. Samsung shipped some of its machines to Ocean Wise’s lab in Vancouver, where researchers started to study how various parameters change the results. Cold water and less agitation helped—but both of those things can also make it harder to get clothing clean. “There are maybe two ways of increasing the performance of your washing machine,” says Moohyung Lee, executive vice president and head of R&D at Samsung, through an interpreter. “Number one is to use heated water. That will obviously increase your energy consumption, which is a problem. The second way to increase the performance of your washing machine is to basically create stronger friction between your clothes . . . and this friction and abrasion of the fibers is what results in the output of microplastics.” Samsung had already developed a technology called “EcoBubble” to improve the performance of cold-water cycles to help save energy, and it tweaked the technology to specifically tackle microfiber pollution. “It helps the detergent dissolve more easily in water so that it foams better, which means that you don’t need to heat up your water as much, and you don’t need as much mechanical friction, but you still have a high level of performance,” Lee says. The new “Less Microfiber” cycle, which anyone with a Samsung washer can download as an update for their machine, can reduce microfiber pollution by as much as 54%. To tackle the remainder, the company designed a filter that can be added to existing washers at the drain pipe, with pores tiny enough to capture fibers. They had to balance two conflicting needs: They wanted to make it as simple as possible to use, so consumers didn’t have to continually empty the filter, but it was also critical that the filter wouldn’t get clogged, potentially making water back up and the machine stop working. The final design compresses the microfibers, so it only has to be emptied once a month, and sends an alert via an app when it needs to be changed. Eventually, in theory, the fibers that are collected could potentially be recycled into new material rather than put in the trash. (Fittingly, the filter itself is also made from recycled plastic.) When OceanWise tested the cycle and filter together, they confirmed that it nearly eliminated microfiber pollution. Now, Samsung’s challenge is to get consumers to use it. The filter, which is designed to be easily installed on existing machines, is launching now in Korea and will launch in the U.S. and Europe later this year. The cost will vary by market, but will be around $150 in the U.S. The cycle, which began to roll out last year, can be automatically installed on WiFi-connected machines.

[renthony]

In which Ren goes on a textile rant.

Going to get in a fight with whoever does the listings for Jo-Ann Fabrics, because why the HELL is a listing for "natural linen" actually for a fabric that contains 50% RAYON. I had to scroll halfway down the goddamn page to find a 100% linen, despite that being what I searched for in the first place.

(I know it's because linen-weave fabrics get called linen even when they're not 100% flax, but I think that's a ridiculous practice that we should stop fuckin' doing. I am looking for PROPER FUCKING LINEN, not fake shit!! God damn it!!!!!)

Fucking rayon. I hate rayon. Everyone's convinced it's "natural" and it's fucking not (it's actually classified as "semi-synthetic"), and in 2014 it made up 56.9% of fibers found in deep-ocean environments. Improvements have been made since then, but I still fucking hate rayon based solely on the fact that marketing has deceived everyone into thinking it's more environmentally-friendly than it is.

It's like...how everyone thinks, oh, bamboo fabric is made of natural materials, so it must be all good! But then they ignore how much fucking processing you have to do to bamboo, and how much water it takes.

That's not even getting into cotton manufacturing. The rates of water consumption and pesticide use in cotton farming are fucking obscene, and cotton is right up there with rayon in how much of it winds up in the ocean. Cotton doesn't degrade quickly at all, and while I wouldn't call it as destructive as some all-synthetic fabric, I still don't like how much people think "oh, it's natural, so it must not have a big environmental impact."

The marketing around "natural fibers" is so fucking deceptive in general. Just because the fiber is natural doesn't mean the manufacturing is inherently sustainable. I'd hate rayon a lot less if there wasn't so much "ohhh, but it's NATURAL! Please ignore how much chemical processing we have to do to the fibers!"

I'm not inherently opposed to polymers and synthetic materials. It is fully possible to produce sustainable polymers, and polymer science is making incredible breakthroughs every day. I genuinely hope that we can continue to push the field into new sustainable directions.

It really is the marketing of semi-synthetic and heavily-processed fibers as "natural fabrics" that pisses me off. At least things like spandex and nylon aren't trying to convince me that they're natural and oh-so-sustainable when I know goddamn full well that they're not.

[ecofashion3]

Sustainable Fashion: A New Era for Style and Responsibility

Introduction

The fashion industry is one of the largest contributors to environmental degradation, accounting for significant water usage, greenhouse gas emissions, and waste generation. In response to these challenges, sustainable fashion has emerged as a solution to balance style with environmental and social responsibility. This movement seeks to reform how clothing is designed, produced, consumed, and discarded, making it a key player in the fight against climate change and resource depletion.

The Problem with Fast Fashion

Fast fashion, characterized by mass production of inexpensive and trendy clothing, has dominated the industry for decades. While it has made fashion accessible to millions, its environmental and social costs are staggering.

Resource Depletion: Producing textiles, particularly cotton and synthetic fibers, demands vast amounts of water and energy. For instance, making one cotton T-shirt can require up to 2,700 liters of water.

Carbon Emissions: The fashion industry accounts for approximately 10% of global carbon emissions, with synthetic fibers derived from fossil fuels being major contributors.

Waste Generation: Over 92 million tons of textile waste are generated annually, much of which ends up in landfills or incinerators.

Exploitation of Labor: Fast fashion often relies on low-cost labor in developing countries, where workers may face unsafe conditions and unfair wages.

What is Sustainable Fashion?

Sustainable fashion aims to mitigate these issues by adopting practices that respect the environment, uphold ethical labor standards, and encourage mindful consumption. It incorporates several principles:

Eco-Friendly Materials: Using organic, biodegradable, or recycled materials such as organic cotton, hemp, bamboo, and recycled polyester reduces reliance on virgin resources.

Ethical Production: Ensuring fair wages, safe working conditions, and labor rights for workers throughout the supply chain.

Waste Reduction: Prioritizing durability, repairability, and recyclability of garments to minimize waste.

Transparency: Providing consumers with information about sourcing, production processes, and environmental impact fosters accountability.

Innovations Driving Sustainable Fashion

The sustainable fashion movement is fueled by innovation and creativity, showcasing how technology and tradition can coexist to reduce environmental harm.

Textile Recycling Technologies: Advanced recycling methods can break down used textiles into their raw fibers, enabling the production of new fabrics without relying on virgin materials.

Alternative Fabrics: Lab-grown materials, such as mushroom leather (mycelium) and algae-based textiles, offer sustainable alternatives to traditional animal and synthetic products.

Digital Fashion: Virtual clothing, designed for social media or gaming, eliminates physical production, addressing issues of waste and resource use.

The Role of Brands

Brands play a crucial role in steering the fashion industry toward sustainability. Many companies are adopting innovative practices to reduce their environmental footprint:

Patagonia: Known for its environmental activism, Patagonia uses recycled materials and offers a repair program to extend the life of its products.

Stella McCartney: The brand prioritizes cruelty-free and eco-friendly materials, avoiding leather, fur, and PVC.

H&M Conscious Collection: A line featuring garments made from organic or recycled materials, showcasing the brand’s commitment to sustainable fashion.

However, the rise of “greenwashing” poses a challenge. Some companies market themselves as eco-friendly without making significant changes to their practices, making it essential for consumers to critically assess claims.

Consumer Role in Sustainable Fashion

Consumers hold significant power in driving the shift toward sustainability through their choices and behaviors:

Mindful Consumption: Opting for quality over quantity and avoiding impulse purchases can reduce demand for fast fashion.

Caring for Clothes: Properly washing, repairing, and storing garments extends their lifespan, reducing the need for new purchases.

Second-Hand Shopping: Buying pre-owned clothing from thrift stores or online platforms reduces waste and promotes circular fashion.

Supporting Ethical Brands: Choosing brands that prioritize sustainability and transparency encourages the industry to adopt better practices.

Challenges to Sustainable Fashion

Despite its promise, sustainable fashion faces several challenges:

Cost: Sustainable garments often come with a higher price tag due to ethical practices and eco-friendly materials, making them less accessible to some consumers.

Scale: Transitioning to sustainable practices on a global scale requires significant investment and collaboration across the supply chain.

Consumer Awareness: Many consumers remain unaware of the environmental impact of their clothing choices or the benefits of sustainable fashion.

The Future of Sustainable Fashion

The future of sustainable fashion lies in collaboration, innovation, and education. Governments, businesses, and consumers must work together to create a circular economy where waste is minimized, and resources are reused. Key developments include:

Legislation: Policies like the European Union’s “Green Deal” are pushing for stricter regulations on waste management and sustainable production in the fashion industry.

Education: Raising awareness about the environmental impact of fashion can empower consumers to make informed choices.

Technological Advancements: Continued innovation in materials science and recycling technologies will make sustainable fashion more accessible and cost-effective.

Conclusion

Sustainable fashion is more than a trend; it is a necessary evolution to address the pressing environmental and social challenges posed by the traditional fashion industry. By embracing eco-friendly materials, ethical practices, and mindful consumption, we can create a future where fashion reflects not just personal style but also a commitment to the planet and its people.

[trendingreportz]

Acetic Acid Market - Forecast(2024 - 2030)

Acetic Acid Market Overview

Acetic Acid Market Size is forecast to reach $14978.6 Million by 2030, at a CAGR of 6.50% during forecast period 2024-2030. Acetic acid, also known as ethanoic acid, is a colorless organic liquid with a pungent odor. The functional group of acetic acid is methyl and it is the second simplest carboxylic acid. It is utilized as a chemical reagent in the production of many chemical compounds. The major use of acetic acid is in the manufacturing of vinyl acetate monomer, acetic anhydride, easter and vinegar. It is a significant industrial chemical and chemical reagent used in the production of photographic film, fabrics and synthetic fibers. According to the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology, from January to September 2021, the combined operating revenue of 12,557 major Chinese garment companies was US$163.9 billion, showing a 9% increase. Thus, the growth of the textile industry is propelling the market growth for Acetic Acid.

Report Coverage

The “Acetic Acid Market Report – Forecast (2024-2030)” by IndustryARC, covers an in-depth analysis of the following segments in the Acetic Acid industry.

By Form: Liquid and Solid.

By Grade: Food grade, Industrial grade, pharmaceutical grade and Others.

By Application: Vinyl Acetate Monomer, Purified Terephthalic Acid, Ethyl Acetate, Acetic Anhydride, Cellulose Acetate, Acetic Esters, Dyes, Vinegar, Photochemical and Others 

By End-use Industry: Textile, Medical and Pharmaceutical, Oil and Gas, Food and Beverages, Agriculture, Household Cleaning Products, Plastics, Paints & Coating and Others.

By Geography: North America (the USA, Canada and Mexico), Europe (the UK, Germany, France, Italy, Netherlands, Spain, Russia, Belgium and the Rest of Europe), Asia-Pacific (China, Japan, India, South Korea, Australia and New Zealand, Indonesia, Taiwan, Malaysia and the Rest of APAC), South America (Brazil, Argentina, Colombia, Chile and the Rest of South America) and the Rest of the World (the Middle East and Africa).

Request Sample

Key Takeaways

The notable use of Acetic Acid in the food and beverages segment is expected to provide a significant growth opportunity to increase the Acetic Acid Market size in the coming years. As per the US Food and Agriculture Organization, world meat production reached 337 million tonnes in 2019, up by 44% from 2000.

The notable demand for vinyl acetate monomer in a range of industries such as textile finishes, plastics, paints and adhesives is driving the growth of the Acetic Acid Market. 

Increase in demand for vinegar in the food industry is expected to provide substantial growth opportunities for the industry players in the near future in the Acetic Acid industry.

Acetic Acid Market Segment Analysis – by Application

The vinyl acetate monomer segment held a massive 44% share of the Acetic Acid Market share in 2021. Acetic acid is an important carboxylic acid and is utilized in the preparation of metal acetates and printing processes, industrially. For industrial purposes, acetic acid is manufactured by air oxidation of acetaldehyde with the oxidation of ethanol, butane and butene. Acetic acid is extensively used to produce vinyl acetate which is further used in formulating polyvinyl acetate. Polyvinyl acetate is employed in the manufacturing of plastics, paints, textile finishes and adhesives. Thus, several benefits associated with the use of vinyl acetate monomer is boosting the growth and is expected to account for a significant share of the Acetic Acid Market.

Inquiry Before Buying

Acetic Acid Market Segment Analysis – by End-use Industry

The food and beverages segment is expected to grow at the fastest CAGR of 7.5% during the forecast period in the Acetic Acid Market. Acetic Acid is also known as ethanoic acid and is most extensively used in the production of vinyl acetate monomer. Vinyl acetate is largely used in the production of cellulose acetate which is further used in several industrial usage such as textiles, photographic films, solvents for resins, paints and organic esters. PET bottles are manufactured using acetic acid and are further utilized as food containers and beverage bottles. In food processing plants, acetic acid is largely used as cleaning and disinfecting products. Acetic acid is extensively used in producing vinegar which is widely used as a food additive in condiments and the pickling of vegetables. According to National Restaurant Association, the foodservice industry is forecasted to reach US$898 billion by 2022. Thus, the advances in the food and beverages industry are boosting the growth of the Acetic Acid Market. 

Acetic Acid Market Segment Analysis – by Geography

Asia-Pacific held a massive 41% share of the Acetic Acid Market in 2021. This growth is mainly attributed to the presence of numerous end-use industries such as textile, food and beverages, agriculture, household cleaning products, plastics and paints & coatings. Growth in urbanization and an increase in disposable income in this region have further boosted the industrial growth in this region. Acetic acid is extensively used in the production of metal acetates, vinyl acetate and vinegar which are further utilized in several end-use industries. Also, Asia-Pacific is one of the major regions in the domain of plastic production which provides substantial growth opportunities for the companies in the region. According to Plastic Europe, China accounted for 32% of the world's plastic production. Thus, the significant growth in several end-use industries in this region is also boosting the growth of the Acetic Acid Market.

Acetic Acid Market Drivers 

Growth in the textile industry:

Acetic Acid, also known as ethanoic acid, is widely used in the production of metal acetate and vinyl acetate which are further used in the production of chemical reagents in textiles, photographic films, paints and volatile organic esters. In the textile industry, acetic acid is widely used in textile printing and dyes. According to China’s Ministry of Industry and Information Technology, in 2020, textile and garment exports from China increased by 9.6% to US$291.22 billion. Also, according to the U.S. Department of Commerce, from January to September 2021, apparel exports increased by 28.94% to US$4.385 billion, while textile mill products rose by 17.31% to US$12.365 billion. Vinyl acetate monomer is utilized in the textile industry to produce synthetic fibers. Thus, the global growth in demand for textiles is propelling the growth and is expected to account for a significant share of the Acetic Acid Market size.

Schedule a call

Surge in use of vinegar in the food industry:

The rapid surge in population along with the adoption of a healthy and sustainable diet has resulted in an increase in demand for food items, thereby increasing the global production level of food items. As per US Food and Agriculture Organization, in 2019, global fruit production went up to 883 million tonnes, showing an increase of 54% from 2000, while global vegetable production was 1128 million tonnes, showing an increase of 65%. Furthermore, world meat production reached 337 million tonnes in 2019, showing an increase of 44% from 2000. Acetic acid is majorly used in the preparation of vinegar which is further widely utilized as a food ingredient and in personal care products. Vinegar is used in pickling liquids, marinades and salad dressings. It also helps to reduce salmonella contamination in meat and poultry products. Furthermore, acetic acid and its sodium salts are used as a food preservative. Thus, the surge in the use of vinegar in the food industry is boosting the growth of the Acetic Acid Market.

Acetic Acid Market Challenge

Adverse impact of acetic acid on human health:

Acetic Acid is considered a strong irritant to the eye, skin and mucous membrane. Prolong exposure to and inhalation of acetic acid may cause irritation to the nose, eyes and throat and can also damage the lungs. The workers who are exposed to acetic acid for more than two or three years have witnessed upper respiratory tract irritation, conjunctival irritation and hyperkeratotic dermatitis. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) reveals that the standard exposure to airborne acetic acid is eight hours. Furthermore, a common product of acetic acid i.e., vinegar can cause gastrointestinal tract inflammatory conditions such as indigestion on excess consumption. Thus, the adverse impact of Acetic Acid may hamper the market growth. 

Buy Now

Acetic Acid Industry Outlook

The top 10 companies in the Acetic Acid Market are:

Celanese Corporation

Eastman Chemical Company

LyondellBasell

British Petroleum

Helm AG

Pentoky Organy

Dow Chemicals

Indian Oil Corporation

Daicel Corporation

Jiangsu Sopo (Group) Co. Ltd.

Recent Developments

In March 2021, Celanese Corporation announced the investment to expand the production facility of vinyl portfolio for the company’s acetyl chain and derivatives in Europe and Asia.

In April 2020, Celanese Corporation delayed the construction of its new acetic acid plant and expansion of its methanol production by 18 months at the Clear Lake site in Texas.

In October 2019, BP and Chian’s Zhejiang Petroleum and Chemical Corporation signed MOU in order to create a joint venture to build a 1 million tonne per annum Acetic Acid plant in eastern China.

Key Market Players:

The Top 5 companies in the Acetic Acid Market are:

Celanese Corporation

Ineos Group Limited

Eastman Chemical Company

LyondellBasell Industries N.V.

Helm AG

For more Chemicals and Materials Market reports, please click here

[evelyns-nyc-fashion-study-tour]

Blog Post #7: Cotton Incorporated

On Thursday, October 17, 2024, our Study Experience for NYC Fashion Students course visited Cotton Incorporated. I wasn’t sure what to expect from the visit; I had seen their commercials but knew little about the company’s background. To prepare, I researched the brand to understand its role in the industry. Founded in 1970, Cotton Incorporated began as a nonprofit organization to support cotton farmers in response to the rising dominance of synthetic fibers. The company focuses on marketing cotton’s qualities to consumers and mills, helping them profit from the material’s unique properties. By encouraging public support for cotton, the company is able to fund textile research and development. Their partnerships with brands allow those companies to leverage Cotton Incorporated’s credibility while creating products that cater to consumer demands based on Cotton Incorporated’s extensive research into cotton varieties. I found it fascinating to learn that Cotton Incorporated is a nonprofit that works closely with cotton farmers. 

Our site visit focused on the forecasting research team, and our guide shared insights into their forecasting process and how they communicate predictions to mills. Before this visit, I had no idea that Cotton Incorporated had its own fashion forecasting team. Hearing about their approach to forecasting was a unique opportunity. Our guide explained how her team travels frequently to gather insights, and she had recently visited Asia to collect textile samples that might influence future trends. I asked whether they had ever witnessed traditional crafting methods in these regions, but due to time constraints, they focused on local markets and retailers instead. 

During the presentation, we viewed clothing samples the team had collected from their recent travels, all featuring cotton as a component. One sample that particularly stood out to me was a fuchsia, long-sleeved top with three-dimensional grooves and ridges. I was captivated by its unique hand and drape, unlike any textile I’d felt before. It was made from a blend of cotton and polyester elastomer sourced from Asia. Seeing these garments gave us a global perspective on textiles and fashion, allowing us to step into the forecasters’ shoes and draw conclusions about emerging trends.

Beyond the samples, we were also shown a presentation on an upcoming trend Cotton Incorporated predicts: making the extraordinary out of the ordinary. The presentation featured color stories and textiles aligned with this theme, all beautifully visualized through imagery. One particularly intriguing aspect was the theme’s nod to “future nostalgia,” which reinterprets past visions of the future, like a microchip dress and Tesla charging stations inspired by retro-futurism. It was fascinating to see how technological innovation, while forward-thinking, often contrasts with the vintage aesthetic of past futuristic predictions.

I also had the opportunity to speak with our guide about her career in fashion forecasting. As someone considering a career in this field, I found her insights invaluable. She shared how she applied for Cotton Incorporated’s internship early in her career but was initially turned down. She later gained experience working for a small fashion magazine, and when she reapplied to Cotton Incorporated, her prior experience helped her secure the job. Interestingly, the hiring manager was familiar with the magazine, giving them a point of connection. She encouraged us to consider applying for internships at Cotton Incorporated, which is definitely an opportunity I want to explore further.

Overall, this site visit significantly expanded my knowledge of Cotton Incorporated. I learned how they conduct trend research and predict future fashion trends, and it was exciting to compare their forecasts to those of other companies like WGSN and Doneger, which I’ve previously used. This experience deepened my understanding of how trends are developed and where the future of the fashion industry is headed, and I am grateful for the opportunity to have been part of it.